"They had their cameramen there today - unless it was one of you television people at the back? Was anyone hiding behind the fence today in camouflage taking a video of the training?

"I think England are pretty switched on and keen on the game.

"You look at strengths and weaknesses of the opposition and formulate a game-plan on that.

"How we played against Wales and Ireland is not necessarily how we will play against England. I guess they are trying to get more information.

"I think it is not necessary is it? It's over the top."

Henry, who does not plan to make an official complaint, went on, "I didn't see these people. They ran away on approach. I just thought I'd mention it to you people in the media."

When asked whether he was flattered by the attention, Henry replied, "That is not the word I'd use. It's paranoia."

NZ media manager Scott Compton explained that television crews had briefly been permitted into the training session - but that the two cameramen in question had not been lined up in the designated area and were seen filming outside the agreed time.

"When approached the two men claimed to be from news agency Reuters, but then scarpered," said Compton.

A spokesman from Reuters said the news organisation had not sent any television cameramen to the NZ training session.

An England spokesman later denied the spying accusation.

As well as Siviatu and Howlett, Henry picks a number of others who didn't feature against Wales - Aaron Mauger, Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Williams and Richie McCaw.

Henry had selected his teams for the 41-3 win over Wales and the 45-7 trouncing of Ireland before his team left New Zealand - but places for the England game were up for grabs.

And after the toughest selection meeting of his coaching career, Henry and his side-kicks Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen finally settled on what they believe to be New Zealand's most potent XV.

Howlett and Sivivatu, who each scored two tries against Ireland, have edged out Gear and Rokocoko to start on the wings.

Captain Tana Umaga and Mauger link in midfield with fly-half Dan Carter, orchestrator of New Zealand's win in Cardiff, returning at 10 and Byron Kelleher at scrum-half.

Mealamu starts at hooker - Anton Oliver is affected by a calf problem - while Woodcock and Carl Hayman complete a front row who will expect a fearsome challenge from England's giant trio.

Williams and Chris Jack combine to lock the scrum while Richie McCaw, widely regarded as the best open-side flanker in the business, joins Jerry Collins and Rodney So'oialo in the back row.

Henry said, "It is the most difficult team we have had to pick as selectors. Across the board we have people who are playing outstanding rugby. For example, Rico Gear scored a hat-trick against Wales and can't get in the team."

New Zealand will be desperate to put down a marker at the world champions' door-step - and on recent form few would bet against them.

New Zealand, in winning the Tri-Nations and the Tests against the Lions, have averaged 39.5 points in 10 matches this year.

Their only setback came against South Africa in Cape Town, where the Springboks produced a ferocious performance.